Mixed-material assembly - Articles - Page 2

New Michigan Method Joins Dissimilar Materials

November 15, 2023

A new “direct joining” method recently developed at the University of Michigan can be used to attach a variety of plastic and metal components.

The Ship of Theseus: Lessons for Configuration Management

Jon Quigley

November 9, 2023

Effective configuration management enables organizations to navigate change, update configurations, and maintain the identity and integrity of complex systems.

Double-Sided Self-Pierce Riveting

Rafael M. Afonso Ph.D. Luís M. Alves Ph.D.

November 1, 2023

A new technique for self-pierce riveting shows promise for joining mixed-material assemblies for EVs.

New Assembly Technique Produces Lightweight Aircraft Fuselages

October 16, 2023

Engineers at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) have developed new materials and production methods to reduce the amount of aluminum used in airframes.

New Materials, New Fasteners

As automakers replace steel with lightweight materials, new fasteners will replace conventional screws.

John Sprovieri

June 11, 2021

Steel has been, is now, and will continue to be the predominant material for vehicle structures and body parts, such as doors, hoods, liftgates and fenders. But, other materials, such as aluminum, magnesium, plastics and composites, are becoming increasingly important.

Researchers Claim Breakthrough in Bonding Mixed Materials

August 21, 2017

EAST LANSING, MI—Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a new adhesive that will enable manufacturers to join multiple materials. The adhesive adapts to different surface properties, works at different material temperatures, and allows bonded parts to be separated for recycling.

Resistance Spot Riveting

A new joining method for sheet metal combines traditional riveting with resistance spot welding.

John Sprovieri

January 5, 2017

The need to reduce vehicle weight has spawned myriad new technologies for assembling aluminum, high-strength steel and other materials. These new technologies include self-piercing rivets, flow-drilling screws and friction-stir spot welding.

Welding Incompatible Thermoplastics

Incompatible thermoplastic polymers can be welded by using polymer blends that are compatible with both components.

September 8, 2016

Ideally, every component in a plastic assembly would be made from the same material. However, cost, functional and aesthetic requirements often dictate that a mix of materials be used.